Dissection in IB Courses

Four laboratory courses currently offered by the School of Integrative Biology (SIB) require dissection of vertebrate animals. (These courses are so identified in our course listings.) Because no books, models, or computer simulations are yet available that adequately convey the complexity of vertebrate structure to the same extent that dissection of a once-living animal does, we can offer no educationally comparable substitute for such dissection.

Nevertheless, the faculty and staff in SIB are fully aware that some students are concerned about dissecting vertebrate animals. These concerns may range from squeamishness to deeply held moral or religious principles. Hence, if you want to take a course in which dissection is required but do not want to do any dissection, discuss your concerns with your instructor.

The specific procedure you should follow will be described in class during the first week and will likely be different in different courses. In general, however, it will require that you notify your instructor or TA of your discomfort with dissection before the dissection is to begin. Your instructor will likely ask you about the nature of your objection. The purpose is not to question your motives but to ascertain if there is some level of participation that is acceptable to you so you can still get something out of the laboratory exercise. Keep in mind that we will not be able to offer you an alternative that is completely equivalent educationally. If you are nevertheless dissatisfied with what you are offered, you may file a complaint with the Head of the Department responsible for the course (you can ask your instructor who that is) or with the Director of the School of Integrative Biology. The School has ultimate authority over all Integrative Biology courses.

Finally, you should be aware that IB 202, Form and Function, which is required of all IB majors, includes vertebrate dissection. Hence it will not be possible to complete an IB major without having to confront the issue of dissection of vertebrate animals.

2007 School of Integrative Biology   sib@life.uiuc.edu
Updated 03/28/07